In our previous blog posts we wrote about the night brace, what it costs and how it works. People often mix up a night brace and fixed retention wire. But a night brace and fixed retention wire deal with two different problems. At SmileDesigner we always use a night brace and, if possible, a fixed retention wire too.
A fixed retention wire is a metal thread fixed to the back of the front four to six teeth. It ensures that the teeth stay in place after you remove your brace. A night brace, on the other hand, is a clear plastic cover that you place over your teeth. As you sleep, the night brace ensures that your teeth remain straight and in the right position. Both devices keep your teeth in place after you stop wearing your brace.
We often get asked what the difference is between a night brace and a fixed retention wire. To answer this question, we’ve listed the various pros and cons of both.
The pros and cons of a fixed retention wire
Pros
The fixed retention wire is permanent which means it does its work 24/7.
Cons
A fixed retention wire can make brushing your teeth a bit more tricky. This can result in the formation of hardened plague (tartar).
A loose wire has to be repaired as quickly as possible.
A fixed retention wire may not always be an option. For example if you have a deep bite. Or if you have small teeth, fillings or crowns.
A fixed retention wire only keeps the front four to six teeth straight.
The pros and cons of a night brace
Pros
A night brace is almost always an option, even if you have a deep bite.
The night brace goes over all your teeth so they are all kept in the right position.
A night brace is easy to keep clean.